Damoh, Madhya Pradesh authorities are currently investigating a disturbing case involving a man who allegedly impersonated a British heart surgeon and performed surgeries at a private missionary hospital, resulting in the deaths of at least seven patients within a span of a month. The accused, posing as Dr N John Kem, is said to have forged documents to pass as a UK-based cardiologist. However, his true identity has now been revealed as Narendra Vikramaditya Yadav, as confirmed by officials.
While the official death toll remains at seven, there are claims from local sources suggesting that the actual number of fatalities might be higher. Deepak Tiwari, an advocate and president of the Damoh Child Welfare Committee, stated that suspicions arose when patients sought treatment elsewhere after feeling uneasy about the impersonator. It was then discovered that the man was indeed a fake, with a criminal case pending against him in Hyderabad.
The hospital where the surgeries took place has been linked to the Ayushman Bharat scheme and was reportedly receiving government funds. This connection has raised concerns about the seriousness of the case, prompting the National Human Rights Commission to become involved and investigate the matter further. Priyank Kanoongo, a member of the commission, confirmed that they have received complaints and are actively looking into the situation.
Officials have seized all hospital documents as part of the ongoing investigation. It was revealed that Yadav used falsified credentials to pose as Dr Kem and secure employment to perform medical procedures. The District Collector, Sudhir Kochar, mentioned that an official statement will be released once the probe is concluded. Additionally, SP Abhishek Tiwari confirmed that a criminal investigation is underway regarding the multiple deaths and fraudulent activities.
The impersonator, known for stirring controversy, had previously made headlines in July 2023 under the alias of Dr N John Kem. His actions on social media, including a peculiar tweet involving UP CM Yogi Adityanath during riots, garnered widespread ridicule. Furthermore, his online impersonation tactics, including sharing edited images with CM Yogi, have raised questions about his authenticity and motives. Authorities are now diligently working to uncover the full extent of his activities and any connections to past fraudulent behavior.